State seeks public input at meetings on Gorge parks

Oregon State Parks is conducting a comprehensive planning process of its 24 state parks in the Columbia Gorge and is asking for comments from the public. Comments received and decisions made will affect Gorge parks for the next decade.

The first step is two public meetings where citizens have the opportunity to share concerns, suggestions and visions for the future of Oregon State Parks in the Columbia River Gorge.

On the west end, a meeting will be held Aug. 14 from 5-7 p.m. at the Gresham Public Library, 385 Miller Ave. On the east end, another meeting will be held in Mosier Aug. 15 from 5-7 p.m. in the meeting hall at the Mark O. Hatfield Trailhead, Rock Creek Road.

Those who cannot make it to the meeting are invited to contribute by visiting www.gorgeparksplan.com and subscribing for email updates, emailing comments and questions to gorge.parksplan@state.or.us, talking to a park planner at 503-986-0723, or sending written comments to Jaime English, OPRD, 725 Summer St. N.E., Suite C, Salem, OR 97301.

A long-term plan is needed to guide future resource management and recreational uses on all these lands. In the planning of these parks, the Oregon Parks and Recreation Department is taking a comprehensive look at natural, scenic area and cultural resource conditions, park management needs, outdoor recreation trends, community partnerships and any related ideas and concerns identified through public input.

The OPRD wants to know why you visit, what you do while you’re here and what brings you back. Please share why you love the Gorge and what opportunities and challenges you see in the future for the beautiful scenic area.